The BJP criticized his statements as disrespectful to soldiers.

Antony’s remarks, amidst his electoral contest against BJP’s Anil Antony, son of Congress veteran Anil Antony, coincided with protests by both the ruling LDF and the main opposition UDF against the BJP-led Centre for implementing the CAA rules.

“This time, it’s the CAA. Last time, just before the elections, it was Pulwama (attack)… What was Pakistan’s role in it? The lives of our soldiers, who were in extremely adverse weather, were sacrificed. That is how they won the election. A blast occurred within Indian territory. They purposely sent soldiers, a blast happened, and they were killed. This is what former J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik said,” Anto told reporters in Pathanamthitta.

Kerala BJP’s president K Surendran responded, “He (Anto) has insulted the brave soldiers of the country. People of Pathanamthitta will give a fitting reply to him through the ballot.”